The Moray coast

stained with Scotland’s national drink can be found in the property too, while lath – the material used before plasterboard – keeps it all together.

Clay drains and cork insulation further avoid the use of plastic, and show the lengths Howard and Ruth went to in order to bamboozle future archaeologists as to the actual period of construction.

“It’s impossible to pick a favourite out of the four buildings,” said Howard.

“They are all different and each has a story behind them.

“Cullen has been the most wonderful place to raise our family, it’s a great environment to live in all seasons – winter is exposed and bracing, whereas summer can be amazingly calm and serene.

“Our four children loved it, and I particularly remember the two youngest boys having birthday parties on the beach.”

However, with his children now grown up and for the most part doing their own thing, Howard has found himself nearing the end of an era.

“I believe that there are certain chapters in your life,” he said.

“My wife Ruth died recently and to me it doesn’t feel right to carry on what we did together alone now.

“And with all the children gone it feels far too big to be here myself.

“I’m hoping the sale of this place will release funds for a new project I can start somewhere else.

“So it’s definitely the end of a chapter, but with lovely memories to take with me.”

Offers should be made in the region of around £550,000. Seafront House:

With every detail thoughtfully designed, this property provides a spacious dining kitchen, lounge, utility area and bathroom on the ground floor. On the upper floor, there are two large double bedrooms and a WC. There is a third bedroom area which provides a wardrobe, bunk and office.

Harbour Hostel:

A welcoming entrance hall leads to all accommodation and facilities. The dining kitchen easily holds a large dining table with space for a cooker and wood-fired Rayburn together with all the usual kitchen facilities. There are two five-bed dormitories along with a disabled toilet, wet room, bathroom and further WC. Beautifully set up for communal living, the hostel has been designed so it can easily be adapted to create a two-bedroom cottage. The Sailor’s Store:

This property is currently split into two letting rooms. The first on the ground floor is a private family room with four single beds and an en-suite shower room. On the first floor, there is a further double bedroom and office space.

The Cottage:

Used as a letting holiday home, The Cottage offers a lovely kitchen diner with generous family seating area. Finishing the ground floor is a bedroom and bathroom. On the upper floor, the lounge and double bedroom both enjoy stunning views.

elsewhere after his Cullen adventure has come to an end

The Cottage and Hostel